Leaking Pipes? Burst Water Pipes? Call a Pro

Posted on May 10, 2016September 28, 2021 by chad siemer

Pipe repair: DIY or Professional project?

When is DIY okay?

Homeowners occasionally try to undertake do it yourself (DIY) projects. For small projects that require little expertise such as repairing toilet hardware, replacing new faucets, or repairing a clogged drain, homeowners are safe and within their realm. In fact, being a smart and savvy homeowner includes knowing how to make minor fixes to your home. It is important, however, for a homeowner to know when attempting DIY project will cause more harm than good, and seek professional assistance.

Call in the Professionals!

A good rule of thumb to use when determining whether or not a plumber is needed is if you can’t see it, don’t try to fix it. For example, if you have a burst water pipe in your home, you cannot see the plumbing in the wall so it’s not a smart undertaking. Homeowners may also notice that their faucet or shower isn’t flowing as they should. It is okay to check if it’s a quick fix, however sometimes these problems are caused by internal plumbing issues that requires water pipe repair. If you are faced with any such situation, our professional licensed plumbing staff at Jeff’s Kitchen and Bath can assist. Our plumbers will actively listen as you describe the issue and propose the needed solution.

Burst water pipes in a home can be caused by many reasons, however, the most prevalent causes are outdated pipes, cold weather, and rust. Homeowners, especially those in older homes, are encouraged to have biannual inspections to prevent unwanted water pipe repair.

If you suspect that you have a burst water pipe in your home, contact Jeff’s Kitchen and Beyond at (407) 968-1801 for our free in home estimate. Our staff is available 24/7’s for your emergency plumbing needs.

Repiping Your Orlando Home With Pex Piping

Posted on April 4, 2013September 28, 2021 by chad siemer

The PEX piping that we use has several advantages over CPVC and copper piping. Also known as cross-linked polyethylene, PEX piping is reliable and safe.

Advantages of Using PEX Instead Of Copper

Cheaper

One of the main advantages that PEX piping has over piping made from copper is cost. In most cases, you will find that PEX piping is about a third of the cost of copper piping. For example, half-inch PEX will cost a third of the price of the same size copper piping.

However, PEX might require special tools that we need to install fittings, which can slightly offset the savings. In most situations, you can save a lot of money by choosing PEX piping over piping that is made from copper.

Faster Installation
When we install PEX piping, it’s normally much faster than installing copper. A PEX installation can be imagined as the process of installing a garden hose to a few different fixtures, which means it’s easy and fast. Regardless of the plumbing system, PEX connections are normally much easier than soldering various copper pipe connections.

No Corrosion
One of the biggest problems with copper piping is corrosion. Over time, acidic water can easily corrode copper piping. However, corrosion is a problem that simply doesn’t exist with PEX piping. Since PEX is not harmed by acidic water, it’s especially useful for areas that run on acidic water.

Advantages of Using PEX Instead Of CPVC
In terms of cost, CPVC and PEX are about the same. However, it’s very likely that PEX will still be a better option. Unlike CPVC, PEX piping does not require glue. Although this benefit is great for someone installing their own PEX, it makes our job much easier and safer.

Since PEX doesn’t require glue, we don’t have to wear a respirator or work in areas with superb ventilation. Also, if it ever freezes, PEX piping is not likely to burst. Once frozen, the chance of CPVC bursting is much more likely. PEX is also much easier to “fish” through walls because it’s very flexible. The fact that the PEX that we use is available in long lengths makes our job much easier.

How Reliable Is PEX?
In many countries, PEX has been used for decades. Many of the homes in these countries have PEX piping that is over 30 years old. Even after decades of use, the PEX piping in these homes continues to maintain strength.

The majority of PEX piping problems are caused by faulty fittings and sloppy installations. It’s not the tubing itself, but faulty installation practices that cause most of the problems that people have had with this type of piping.

Repiping done right with Jeff’s Kitchen Bath & Beyond, call today for a FREE estimate 407-968-1801. Save $200 off your entire repipe job by mentioning the coupon below.

The Secrets of Early Leak Detection

Posted on January 18, 2013September 28, 2021 by chad siemer

Water leaks will commonly appear in homes. They ordinarily occur where appliances and plumbing fixtures are located. This would be places such as the bathroom, kitchen, garage, pool, patio, laundry, or even near the water meter.

A water leak in a home will worsen over time and can cause a great deal of damage. When such a thing is suspected, it is always a good idea to call a plumber. Such a plumber will offer 24/7 service so you do not have to have damage accumulate prior to have the leak taken care of. They will have experienced personnel on hand who can take care of all your leak detection needs.

Although many people depend on detecting water leaks by sight or sound there are new devices on the market that can detect a leak that would not otherwise be apparent. Qualified plumbers are well aware of these very convenient devices.

One of these is called a ‘spot detector’. This device can sense water leaks via a sense probe or by a visual indicator. It may be one device or several strung together to cover a larger area. Plumbers also use what is called a hydroscopic tape-based system in which a tape is placed around an infrastructure or equipment and monitored. When the tape becomes wet, an alarm will show there is a leak.

A common leak detector that a plumber can install is an Active Leak Detection System. This system is installed to stop, automatically, the flow of water when an alarm goes off. There are two types of this system.
First is the Individual Appliance System, which is hooked to a single appliance. When a leak is detected, it will automatically shut off the water supply to that appliance.
Second is the Whole House System. This system places numerous sensors throughout the home and shuts off the main water supply when a leak is detected.

Early leak detection is the key to avoiding serious damage and costly repairs. Contact Jeff”s Kitchen Bath & Beyond. We are your Oviedo Plumbing Specialists. Call us anytime at (407) 968-1801